What is a Lagree Megaformer and Which One Should I Buy?

November 18, 2024

What is a Megaformer Pilates

What is a Megaformer?

A Megaformer is a fitness machine, designed to facilitate an exercise method called “Lagree”. The machine should not be confused with a pilates reformer. Although it does feature a central platform that glides along rails, the Megaformer facilitates high intensity, low-impact workouts compared to the low intensity, low-impact workouts that the pilates reformer facilitates.

The Megaformer has adjustable resistance settings, handlebars, pulleys, bungees and many more. All these features allow users to perform a wide range of exercises that target core stability, balance and muscular endurance.

How does the Megaformer work?

Megaformer workouts are designed around high intensity, full-body yet low-impact exercises. Unlike traditional high-intensity workouts (such as running), the Megaformer uses controlled movements that engage muscles deeply without straining the joints.

Exercises on the Megaformer typically involve pushing, pulling or holding various positions on one of the machines platforms. Often the movements on the Megaformer are slow which sometimes begs the question; “How can the exercises be high intensity yet slow?”. Despite many movements being slow the intensity comes from the continuous muscle engagement and resistance. This approach also builds endurance as the slow pace requires muscles to stay engaged for long periods of time.

What are the benefits of using a Megaformer?

Among the benefits of Megaformer workouts are:

Strengthens body muscles uniformly

The Megaformer targets multiple muscle groups simultaneously, helping to build balanced strength throughout the body. This full-body approach means that no single muscle group is overworked or underdeveloped. Compound movements such as the “Reverse Wheelbarrow” are great examples of exercises that target multiple muscle groups simultaneously. In the "Reverse Wheelbarrow" users place their hands on the moving carriage and slowly push and pull, engaging the arms, shoulders, core and even the legs to stabilize.

Improves flexibility and balance

Many Megaformer exercises are designed to lengthen muscles through controlled stretching and strengthening, which improves flexibility and stability. For example the “Runners Lunge” extends the legs and opens the hip flexors, while also engaging the glutes and core. This helps to extend muscle range and reinforce balance.

Enhances core stability and endurance

Core stability is a central focus in every Megaformer workout. In the majority of exercises you are required to activate and engage your core which increases core stability and endurance. Moves such as the “Plank to Pike” challenge core strength and control whilst also engaging the shoulders and back.

Provides time-efficient workouts to improve fitness

Megaformer workouts can be designed to jam pack a full body-comprehensive workout in a short period of time, making the workouts fantastic for people with busy schedules.

Each exercise works multiple muscle groups making it possible to do a full body workout in as little as 30 minutes. If you are looking for a time efficient Megaformer workout it is best to focus on compound movements such as the “Catfish” which helps users strengthen their calves, thighs and core all at once.

Offers high-intensity exercises for weight loss

The high-intensity, low-impact nature of Megaformer workouts burns calories helping with weight loss.

If you are trying to lose weight it is important to focus on movements that keep the heart rate up. A good example of one of these movements is “The Super Lunge”. This involves pressing and pulling the carriage with one leg while the other remains on the platform. To perform this exercise your quads, glutes, hamstrings and core need to be constantly engaged. This raises your heart rate therefore helping to burn calories and ultimately lose weight. This is just one example of an exercise that can lead to weight loss, there are also many more.

Who typically uses the Megaformer?

The Megaformer is suitable for individuals of all fitness levels. Here are just some examples of people who typically use the Megaformer:

Fitness enthusiasts looking for a challenging full body workout use the Megaformer to target multiple muscle groups in a single session.
Those with busy schedules appreciate the Megaformer's ability to deliver results in a short period of time.
Individuals who are prone to injury and are looking for low-impact, high-efficient workouts.
Trained individuals (e.g. professional athletes) as the Megaformer offers a fresh challenge combining strength, endurance and stability.

What distinguishes a Megaformer from traditional Pilates equipment?

The Megaformer stands out from traditional Pilates equipment (e.g. the reformer), in several key ways.

Firstly, its larger footprint allows for a wider range of exercises compared to the traditional reformer. Exercises such as “The Super Lunge” cannot typically be performed on the reformer as the carriage is not long enough.

In terms of resistance, the Megaformer offers heavier resistance options than the majority of traditional pilates machines. These heavier resistance options make the Megaformer great for seasoned athletes who want a real challenge.

The Megaformer is also specifically engineered for high-intensity exercises. For example the design includes handles which are positioned at varying heights along the frame. These handles act as anchoring points for a variety of exercises. The Megaformer also has a number of carriage and platform straps which help facilitate a wide variety of compound movements.

How to start training on a Megaformer?

Getting started with the Megaformer can seem daunting, but with the correct guidance anyone can enjoy the vast benefits. It is best to attend a local studio. Use the studio locator on the Lagree website. Simply put your zip code in to the search bar to get a list of local studios. Start with a beginners class and progress to more advanced classes as appropriate. All studios with Megaformers have to be licenced by Lagree which means all the instructors are certified and fully trained to teach the Lagree method.

What is the cost of a Megaformer class?

The cost of Megaformer classes varies depending on the studio and location. On average classes range from $25 - $40.

Most studios offer packages or memberships which reduce the cost per session for regular attendees.

Can one buy a Megaformer for personal use?

Yes, the Megaformer is available for home purchase.

It is important to remember the Megaformer is substantial in size and weight, so make sure you have the necessary space requirements. The different variations of the Megaformer have slightly different dimensions. For example the Lagree Mega Pro measures 125 inches long, 35 inches wide and weighs 395 pounds.

Setup of the Megaformers are very straightforward and can be done at home. Your Megaformer will arrive boxed in parts and you will be provided with a comprehensive video that walks you through the assembly process step by step.